By Felix Hoover

For YourNewsColumbus

Posted 09-19-09

 

Different takes on "Columbus-- The Crossroad of Ohio" form the latest art display Downtown in the lobby of the Rhodes Tower.

About 70 pieces from 30 artists present various interpretations of the theme.

Organizers hope to present similar exhibits annually through 2012 when the city celebrates its bicentennial, said City Councilwoman Priscilla Tyson, who spoke at the opening reception as a supporter of the effort.

"I thought it was a great event showing the diversity of Columbus," she said.

"Oulanje Regan was impressed that so many individuals contributed to the exhibit, most of which was created by local artists.

Cindy Bryden, president of the Dublin Area Arts League, said she paints mostly in acrylics, but submitted a paper collage of a tree-lighting ceremony in Grove City for the exhibit at the Rhodes Tower, 30 E. Broad St.

"All of these little towns around Ohio used to have a tree-lighting ceremony. but many are dying out."

Bryden's work not only preserves the tradition, but also fulfills her desire to exhibit with prominent artists whom she admires.

The "crossroads" aspect of her piece reflects "old traditions crossing into new traditions," she said.

"I was using looser terminology than a 'road,' " Bryden said.

Saxophonist Gene Walker, who provided musical entertainment for the event, was also the subject of a portrait in the display by Mike Fields.

The exhibit runs through Sept. 30.